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Veggie Pasta Salad

Vibrant Veggie Pasta Salad for Easy Meal Prep Bliss

A colorful Veggie Pasta Salad that's quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making healthy eating easy and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta (Farfalle, rotini, fusilli, penne) Whole wheat or legume-based options recommended.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Zucchini Can substitute with yellow squash.
  • 2 cup Broccoli Florets Green beans or bell peppers can also be used.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Varied colors provide sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Add just before serving.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Optional for milder salad.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Neutral oils can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Vinaigrette/Dressing Citrus-based vinaigrettes brighten flavors.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional; omit for vegan option.

Equipment

  • large stockpot
  • Colander
  • large sauté pan
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large stockpot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes.
  2. Use a colander to drain the pasta, then rinse under cold water for 20-30 seconds to cool it down.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and broccoli, sauté for 3 minutes until slightly tender.
  4. Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
  6. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, toss again, and serve immediately or chill for an hour.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal vegetables or personal preferences for variety. Allow resting time for optimal flavor blending.

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